What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is a long-term condition where the body is no longer able to make insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps sugar move from the bloodstream into cells for energy. Without it, sugar builds up in the blood instead of fueling the body.
This condition often begins in childhood or early adulthood, but it can develop at any age. It requires daily care to keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range.
Symptoms and Causes
Type 1 diabetes often comes on quickly, and the symptoms can be noticeable.
Common symptoms include:
- Feeling very thirsty
- Urinating more often than usual
- Feeling very hungry, even after eating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Tiredness or low energy
- Blurry vision
- Nausea or vomiting
- Mood changes or irritability
- Frequent infections, such as yeast infections
Type 1 diabetes happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. Experts believe both genetics and environmental factors may play a role, but it is not caused by diet or lifestyle.
How is it diagnosed?
Healthcare providers use blood tests to check how your body handles sugar. These may include fasting blood sugar tests, A1C tests, or glucose tolerance testing.
Additional tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis, such as checking for specific antibodies or measuring insulin levels.
How is it treated?
Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong care, but can be managed successfully with the right plan.
Treatment typically includes:
- Daily insulin through injections or an insulin pump
- Checking blood sugar levels regularly
- Eating balanced meals with attention to carbohydrate intake
- Staying physically active
- Routine medical visits and A1C testing
With consistent management, many people can live active, healthy lives. Your care team will help you adjust your treatment over time to fit your needs.
